Aaron Rodgers' Recovery Secret: Exploring the Benefits of Cayenne Pepper Water

Could cayenne pepper water be the key to feeling good and staying injury-free? According to New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers—maybe.

In a new interview with the Associated Press, Rodgers, 40, shared that he’s been drinking cayenne pepper water as part of his rehab regimen. (Rodgers has reportedly been dealing with hamstring, knee, and ankle injuries this season.)

“T-Mo [New York Jets punter Thomas Morstead] gave me a little fountain of youth he said he’s been taking for a while,” Rodgers told the AP Tuesday. “All legal, of course. ... He’s been taking like cayenne pepper and water, so he gave me some before the game.”

Both ESPN and the AP noted that the combination of cayenne pepper and water can have “several” health benefits with the potential for pain relief and helping metabolic and gastrointestinal health—but what does the science say? Here’s what you need to know before you try the spicy elixir.

Research hasn’t looked at the effects of cayenne pepper water on human health, but there is some research to support the use of capsaicin, the active compound in cayenne.

“Capsaicin can boost metabolism slightly by increasing thermogenesis, helping the body burn calories more efficiently,” Scott Keatley, RD, co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy, told Health. “It may also aid digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes and increasing stomach acid, potentially supporting smoother digestion in those without sensitivity issues.”

Some studies have also found that cayenne can act as a mild anti-inflammatory agent “which may provide pain relief, especially in cases of joint or muscle discomfort,” Keatley said.

But while capsaicin has been linked with pain relief in therapeutic or high doses, “a drink that contains cayenne may or may not contribute that amount,” Jessica Cording, MS, RD, author of The Little Book of Game-Changers: 50 Healthy Habits for Managing Stress & Anxiety, told Health.

Jamie Alan, PhD, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University, agrees: “I don’t think drinking cayenne orally will provide much pain relief.”

However, topical cayenne or capsaicin may do something for pain relief. “Cayenne pepper depletes substance P, which is a chemical that is involved in pain transmission,” Alan said, noting that there are currently various over-the-counter creams and patches that contain capsaicin.

“The kicker is that once you apply the cream to your skin, it will burn,” Alan said. “Application of capsaicin will cause a transient increase in release of substance P—which causes the burning—and then subsequently substance P will be locally depleted for some time, resulting in local pain relief.”

Keatley also points out that cayenne contains fiber, which can help support gut health and satiety. “Though you’re unlikely to get a substantial fiber dose just by adding it to water, the spice’s high fiber content overall can be beneficial when incorporated into a balanced diet,” he said.

But Cording said the “fountain of youth” claims just aren’t accurate.

“When it comes to promoting longevity, I generally recommend following an overall healthy diet—research points to the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and similar eating patterns—being physically active, prioritizing good sleep, and managing stress,” she said. “If you’re not taking care of yourself in other ways, drinking cayenne in water won’t help you in the long run.”

In general, Alan said drinking cayenne pepper water “likely isn’t harmful unless you have gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach ulcers.” If you have a sensitivity to peppers, you also might feel uncomfortable for about 15 minutes or so after drinking the concoction, she said.

If you have hemorrhoids, acid reflux, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) “it can increase discomfort and potentially exacerbate symptoms,” Keatley said.

One more thing to keep in mind, per Keatley: Capsaicin can interact with some medications, especially blood thinners. “It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before making cayenne pepper a regular part of your diet,” he said.

Overall, Keatley recommends taking a “balanced view” of drinking cayenne pepper water.

“Cayenne pepper water can offer some minor metabolism and digestive benefits, but these effects are temporary,” he said. “While capsaicin may provide a short-term boost in metabolism and digestive support, it’s not a substitute for a balanced diet or long-term wellness strategies. It’s certainly not the fountain of youth.”